As the start of the school year approaches, schedule a back-to-school visit with your family doctor or pediatrician. This is an important bullet on your back-to-school to-do list, especially because many schools require physicals and other tests.
Schedule Early
You’ll want to get a head start on scheduling. Doctors won’t want to squeeze you in or risk a short visit, because of the importance of these appointments. Your pediatrician will need time to give a thorough examination. Plus, you’ll want the time to go over any concerns with your child.
Don’t wait until the school year has started. One, you may delay your child’s enrollment. Two, visits during the school year can be harder to fit in. This is especially true with extracurricular activities, or if your child’s school has a strict attendance policy.
Preparing for Your Appointment
Be sure to bring any forms that you’ll need to complete. This includes forms that your child’s school may require to certify that the test has been done. Or, if your child takes medication, you’ll need specific documentation from your doctor allowing the school to administer medicine on school property.
You will also need to bring vaccine records if your child has received vaccines anywhere other than your doctor’s office. This includes on-site school vaccinations, or vaccinations administered at a pharmacy.
Also, you should bring a list of important questions that you want to address about your child’s health. You may want to ask about diet, behavior, sleep, medications, and development if you have no other questions.
Make It a Habit
No matter the age of your child, you should make it a habit to visit your family doctor or pediatrician for a back-to-school physical examination every year. You’ll be able to keep up-to-date on your child’s development. Plus, you can make sure that prior issues have been resolved or properly addressed. If any adjustments to an issue are necessary, you can also ensure that your doctor will make these changes.
Let your child go back to school confident and healthy! Be sure to schedule your appointment today.